2010 Geneva Motor Show logo

2010 Geneva Motor Show logo

With the global financial crisis--and all the negative effects associated with it--for the most part behind us, the 2010 Geneva Motor Show is in full swing, and the cars are rolling out.

Considering that in the past 12 months we’ve seen vehicle sales drop to almost half the levels they were just a few years ago, a number of major automakers go bankrupt, be consolidated or in some cases both, and tough new fuel economy and safety regulations implemented, some would say we’re lucky to even have a show, let alone one that’s bursting with as many new model launches and concept car reveals as this year’s Geneva event.

Whilst past years have had a definite theme, whether it be sports cars, green cars, or pure design, 2010 sees a mash-up of different--and sometimes contradictory--concepts out on display.

Over the next several pages is our complete coverage of the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, which will be continuously updated during the event so stay tuned.

2010 Geneva Motor Show: Concept Cars

2010 Mercedes-Benz F800 Style

2010 Mercedes-Benz F800 Style

Mercedes-Benz F800 Style: Mercedes-Benz is in a process of reinventing its design language, going from the sharp edged and relatively boxy designs at present to a much more fluid form for its next-generation of cars. Previewing this new design is the F800 Style, a concept car that’s also thought to preview a future ‘baby’ CLS four-door coupe as well as the automaker’s future powertrain technology. Its plug-in hybrid drivetrain consists of a 300 horsepower gasoline V-6 mated to a 109 horsepower electric motor running on lithium-ion batteries that can be charged by a household power socket. According to Mercedes-Benz, the F800 plug-in hybrid will accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph--all while returning a fuel economy of 81 mpg. A less powerful hydrogen fuel cell model will also be presented.

2010 Stile Bertone Alfa Romeo Pandion Concept leak

2010 Stile Bertone Alfa Romeo Pandion Concept leak

Bertone Alfa Romeo Pandion Concept: Alfa Romeo is planning a barrage of boutique-designed cars for this year’s Geneva event, with three different concepts coming from Turin’s legendary design houses. Bertone’s effort is the Pandion, named after a fish hawk because of its large, wing like doors. Details on the car's underpinnings are still vague, but it's rumored to be based on the rear-wheel drive Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, ensuring brisk, if not stellar, performance.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT-E Concept

2010 Opel Flextreme GT-E Concept

Opel Flextreme GT-E Concept: The Voltec powertrain technology that underpins the 2011 Chevrolet Volt is well-known by now, as are plans to distribute the tech to other platforms. Using a compact internal combustion engine to charge an array of lithium-ion batteries that in turn powers an electric motor driving the vehicle, the Voltec system in the Flextreme GT-E offers 0-62 mph acceleration of 9 seconds, a top speed in excess of 120 mph and an estimated fuel economy of more than 100 mpg. Peak output is rated at 161 horsepower and 272 pound-feet of torque. The 15.4 feet long Flextreme GT-E concept illustrates how extended-range electric vehicle technology can be plugged into large or mid-size vehicles, but it also previews a new design language for Opel.

2010 5 By Peugeot Concept

2010 5 By Peugeot Concept

5 By Peugeot HYbrid4 Concept: Peugeot is in the midst of a design transition, having recently appointed new design director Gilles Vidal and then previewing a new design language with the striking SR1 concept. Now the French automaker has revealed the equally stunning 5 by Peugeot concept car, showcasing a possible design direction for the large luxury vehicle segment, which you can interpret as being a preview of a new 508 four-door coupe model in the works. Powered by the automaker's forthcoming HYbrid4 technology, the new 5 by Peugeot features a 163 horsepower 2.0-liter HDi diesel engine driving the front wheels and a 37 horsepower electric motor on the rear axle. This arrangement provides a peak output of 200 horsepower, an electric only mode for low speed operation, all-wheel drive traction when required and a fuel economy of up to 74.3 mpg.

Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta Concept By Pininfarina

Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta Concept By Pininfarina

Pininfarina Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta Concept: Joining the Bertone-styled Pandion in Geneva, this stunning “spider” convertible styled by Pininfarina is a modern re-interpretation of the famous Duetto roadster, and celebrates both Alfa Romeo’s centenary and Pininfarina’s 80th birthday.

2010 Geneva Motor Show: Sports Cars

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera: At 154 pounds lighter than a standard Gallardo and 570 horsepower, the latest Superleggera is more than a match for the previous car, which ended production in 2008. Focused, simple, yet still completely Lamborghini, the Superleggera is even more extreme, quick, and eye-catching than the regular Gallardo.

2010 Lotus Evora Carbon Concept

2010 Lotus Evora Carbon Concept

Lotus Evora Carbon Concept: The Lotus Evora gets a special lightweight, FIA GT4-inspired carbon fiber treatment in a display of what can be done to add lightness in traditional Lotus fashion. Not yet tipped for production, the Carbon Concept is nonetheless a very feasible design--provided buyers are willing to pay by the pound.

2011 Audi RS5 leak

2011 Audi RS5 leak

Audi RS5: When Audi released the RS4 back in 2005, few expected it to be a true competitor to BMW’s benchmark M3 but with the benefit of quattro all-wheel drive, a high-revving V-8, and better weight distribution, the performance sedan managed to upset many, if not, all of its rivals. A replacement for the RS4 is till several years away as RS variants are usually only released in the final couple of years of a standard model’s product cycle, but to fill the gap a brand new RS5 is being launched, complete with a 450 horsepower V-8 and uprated seven-speed S tronic dual clutch gearbox.

2011 Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible

2011 Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible

Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible: The pressure to show an interest in the ecological impact of driving is extending ever-upwards, so high that even Bentley is working on a new biofuel model. The new model is the convertible version of last year’s Continental Supersports, and like its hard-top cousin the new Bentley comes packing a twin-turbocharged W-12 engine with 612 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque and fully flex-fuel ready. This is enough to rocket the oversized convertible from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds and see it reach a top speed of 202 mph--making it the fastest four-seat convertible in the world.

2011 Jaguar XKR

2011 Jaguar XKR

Jaguar XKR: The Jaguar XK is one of the most desirable cars on the planet so it’s little wonder that Jaguar’s designers have decided to leave the car mostly untouched for the latest model year. Still, an update was due and for 2011 sees the top speed of the XKR Coupe and Convertible raised to 174 mph from 155 mph. Along with the latest XKR, Jaguar will also be showcasing two new optional performance and styling packs--Speed Pack and Black Pack--that will be available for the 2011 XK and XKR as part of a new personalization experience.

2010 Porsche 911 Turbo S

2010 Porsche 911 Turbo S

Porsche 911 Turbo S: Hot on the heels of the facelifted 911 Turbo comes the more extreme 2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S, which is set to arrive in local showrooms in the second half of the year. Designed for the customer that seeks only the best in terms of power, performance and driving dynamics, the 911 Turbo S delivers 530 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque--surpassing the numbers of even the GT2--and comes exclusively with the seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) dual clutch transmission. Combined with the launch control system from the standard Sport Chrono Package, the 911 Turbo S accelerates from a standstill to 62 mph in 3.3 seconds and reaches 124 mph in 10.8 seconds. Top speed is 195 mph. Despite its significant increase in power and dynamic performance, the 911 Turbo S, at 26.8 mpg combined, doesn't consume any more fuel than the regular Porsche 911 Turbo, making it one of the most efficient sports cars in its class.

2010 Geneva Motor Show: New Cars

2011 Lexus CT 200h

2011 Lexus CT 200h

Lexus CT 200h: Competition in the premium compact segment is about to get a whole lot tougher with Lexus joining the fray with a new model called the CT 200h. To stand out from the crowd Lexus plans to offer the car with a hybrid powertrain and there’s a strong chance that this will be the sole option, making it a dedicated hybrid like the HS 250h. Whether or not the CT 200h goes on sale in the U.S. remains to be seen but there is strong support for the car coming from within Lexus' own management team.

2011 Volkswagen Touareg

2011 Volkswagen Touareg

Volkswagen Touareg: The first generation Touareg has achieved only modest sales since its launch in 2003, mainly because of its lack of seven-seater capability and premium price tag compared with many of its Japanese rivals. The second-generation of the SUV, the all-new 2011 Volkswagen Touareg, has now been revealed and by the look of things many of the issues of the previous model have now been addressed. Looking more like an Audi than a Volkswagen, the new Touareg features a muscular and sculpted body with LED highlights and an aggressive stance that screams luxury. Sadly, Volkswagen has chosen to make its new Touareg still a five-seater, which may come to hurt them in the future. The only major shake-up in the powertrain department is the lack of a V-8 model, replaced instead with a hybrid system rated at 375 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque. This is enough to accelerate the SUV from 0-62 mph in 6.2 seconds and see it reach a top speed of 150 mph--all while returning a combined fuel economy of 29 mpg.

2011 Volvo S60

2011 Volvo S60

Volvo S60: After weeks of drip-fed teaser images and videos, the 2011 Volvo S60 has finally been revealed in all its glory and we must say, the new compact sedan is one gorgeous piece of kit. At first glance, the new S60 features definite coupe-like proportions, accompanied by strong shoulders, which together give it a look that is very similar to the design of the Jaguar XF. There are, however, plenty of unique elements such as the traditional Volvo grille and sculptured headlamps that will help the car battle it out in one of the industry's toughest segments. Add to this a choice of powerful yet efficient turbocharged engine and a brilliance PowerShift dual clutch transmission and you’re left with one very competent sedan.

2011 Audi A1

2011 Audi A1

Audi A1: Owners of the Mini Cooper and BMW 1-Series--at least overseas--better look out because Audi has a new model that’s set to launch in the premium compact segment. The new car is the 2011 Audi A1, which the automaker is already boasting is the “first” true premium compact car. Audi has developed a brand new chassis for the A1 with a range of advanced engines offering strong performance in this class. Four engines will be available at launch: two TFSI gasoline units and TDI turbodiesels, all of which feature turbocharging, direct fuel injection and engine stop-start technology. Power outputs range from 86-122 horsepower and customers will be able to choose from a standard six-speed manual or optional seven-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission. Fuel economy will vary between 43 and 62 mpg (estimated figures for combined European cycle).

2011 Porsche Cayenne leak

2011 Porsche Cayenne leak

Porsche Cayenne: A smaller, lighter and distinctively sportier Porsche Cayenne is just months away from launch and its first world showing will be in Geneva. The new model will be offered initially with three engine options: an entry-level 3.6-liter V-6 with 300 horsepower, a naturally aspirated 4.8-liter V-8 with 400 horsepower in the Cayenne S and a range-topping twin-turbocharged 4.8-liter V-8 with 500 horsepower in the Cayenne Turbo.The Cayenne Diesel will return, packing a new 240 horsepower 3.0-liter V-6 turbodiesel engine. This eco-friendlier Cayenne will be joined by the long-awaited Cayenne S Hybrid, which will combine a supercharged 330 horsepower 3.0-liter gasoline V-6 with a 47 horsepower electric motor running on lithium-ion batteries. Sadly, neither the diesel nor the hybrid will be sold in the U.S. anytime soon and to add insult to injury, overseas models will also benefit from a fuel-saving engine stop-start system.

2011 Kia Sportage

2011 Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage:  In the past couple of years Kia’s lineup has grown to include three different SUV models as well as the stylish Forte sedan and Soul hatchback, all while improving quality levels and maintaining the brand’s traditions of affordability and good value. This rollercoaster of product launches isn’t showing any signs of slowing--even with the recent economic crisis--with first the new 2010 Sorrento and now the 2011 Sportage making its debut. Due for a sales launch later this year, the new Sportage appears to retain the boxy styling of the current model, though it features a sportier edge that it shares with the Sorrento, as well as Kia's new family styling.

2011 MINI Countryman

2011 MINI Countryman

MINI Countryman: There was a lot of speculation about what MINI was going to call its new crossover, with names like Colorado, Crossman and Maxi all doing the rounds. Finally, MINI decided on reviving its Countryman moniker, a name that dates back to the 1960s where it was used for a special two-door estate version of the original Morris Minor sold in the UK. The new 2011 MINI Countryman is a very different beast to the original 1960s model. As the first model in the MINI range with four doors and a wide-opening rear lid, the new Countryman provides even greater freedom of space, a slightly elevated seating position, and optimized driving comfort and safety thanks to the optional ALL4 all-wheel drive system. Engine outputs stand at 120 horsepower and 118 pound-feet of torque for the naturally aspirated 1.6-liter mill in the Cooper Countryman and 180 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque (192 pound-feet with Overboost) for the unit in the turbocharged Cooper S Countryman. The Cooper will accelerate from 0-62 mph in 10.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 118 mph, while the Cooper S will cover the same sprint in 7.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 128 mph.

2010 Geneva Motor Show: Green Cars

2010 Ferrari 599 HY-KERS Concept

2010 Ferrari 599 HY-KERS Concept

Ferrari 599 HY-KERS Hybrid Concept:  This experimental prototype puts Ferrari's F1 hybrid technology to use, bringing kinetic energy recovery (KERS) to a 599-based road car. Pairing a 100-horsepower electric motor with the 599's existing 6.0-liter V-12 engine, the hybrid promises super-tourer performance and slightly greener emissions.

2010 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Concept

2010 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Concept

Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Concept: Not ready for prime time, but showing what can be done with an engineering base like that at Lotus, the Evora 414E Hybrid Concept puts a sporting spin on hybrid drive. Zero to 60 mph times under four seconds thanks to 414 horsepower of electric motor output are possible, with a range-extending 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine helping it reach a cruising range of 300 miles. Electric-only driving is limited to a 35-mile range.

2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid

2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid

Infiniti M35 Hybrid: Somewhat late to the hybrid luxury sedan game, Infiniti is counting on its M35 Hybrid to deliver sales success on its merits alone, with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a 68-horsepower electric motor delivering performance and green capability. The engine can decouple from the driveline thanks to a set of clutches, allowing gasoline-only, electric-only, or hybrid propulsion.

Audi A1 e-tron Concept

Audi A1 e-tron Concept

Audi A1 e-tron Concept: Not strictly an electric car though Audi bills it as such, the A1 e-tron is actually a plug-in, range-extended hybrid. Powered by electric motors that are recharged by a small rotary engine, the car is capable of up to 31 miles on electricity alone, 10.2 second 0-60 mph runs and an overall range of  124 miles. Intended as a big-city commuter, the car is tipped to eventually see production, though not until the halo e-tron cars--an R8-based vehicle and the R4--make their debut.

Valmet Eva teaser

Valmet Eva teaser

Valmet Eva EV Concept: Independent vehicle manufacturer Valmet will be showing off a new concept car previewing an all-electric hatchback, which the company eventually plans to produce. According to reports coming out of Europe, the Eva will be able to seat four adults and drive up to 160 miles on a single charge. Supplying the electric powertrain technology for the vehicle is a European consortium called Fortum that has operations in Scandinavia and Russia.

Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid

Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid

Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid Race Car: Despite not being a part of Formula 1, Porsche has leveraged similar technology to develop its own hybrid race car, which the automaker has developed as a testbed for future technologies under the banner of "Porsche Intelligent Performance." The vehicle uses a F1-style Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) in which an electro-mechanical flywheel is used to store kinetic energy created under braking and then power a pair of 80 horsepower electric motors mounted on the front axle and driving the front wheels. The system works in conjunction with the car's 480 horsepower naturally-aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine driving the rear wheels and provides a maximum eight-second burst of propulsion at the push of a button, delivering the boost necessary to maximize exit speed from a corner or to pass another car.

Rinspeed UC? Concept

Rinspeed UC? Concept

Rinspeed UC? Concept: With Aston Martin city cars, Ferrari hybrids, Porsche hybrids and Audi diesels dancing through its halls, it's no wonder the 2010 Geneva Motor Show attracts its share of off-message green machines. Perhaps no nameplate in the world is as off-message, in toto, as Rinspeed, which this year is presenting the UC? electric mobility concept. If the Rinspeed name sounds familiar that’s because the wacky Swiss tuners have brought us some of the most memorable concept cars of the recent past, with amphibious cars, nearly invisible cars and even flying cars. The latest UC? may not be as extreme but considering this concept may actually be built, we can certainly understand why.

Protoscar LAMPO2 EV Prototype

Protoscar LAMPO2 EV Prototype

Protoscar LAMPO2 EV: Electric sports car prototypes are popping up from every corner, including Audi's e-tron, the Mercedes SLS-AMG Electric, BMW's Vision Concept, and of course, there's the limited-production and already doomed Tesla Roadster. Swiss design group Protoscar is right up there as well its LAMPO2 concept car, which will be on display in Geneva. Rated at 408 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque, the LAMPO2 combines quick-charging, all-wheel-drive acceleration and a range of up to 124 miles. Zero to 60 mph runs take about 5 seconds according to Protoscar, and its top speed is estimated at 124 mph. It weighs in at 3,488 pounds thanks to a tube-steel chassis with composite body, seats two, and measures just 14 feet long, 74 inches wide, a shade under four feet tall, and has a wheelbase of 95 inches.

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2010 Geneva Motor Show: Stay Updated

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